I am pleased to announce that the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs has approved three more grants for our Casey electorate to help commemorate the Centenary of Anzac here in our local community.

The Rotary Club of Montrose & District will receive $795 for a plaque placed near the Montrose War Memorial detailing the story of Major Charles Morris, and his involvement in the events of 5 August 1914. Major Morris was fire commander at Fort Nepean. He ordered the first shot of the First World War on the German steamer the Pfalz and was a resident of Montrose after the War.
The Mt Evelyn RSL Sub-Branch will receive $8,535 for the production of the book A Stretcher Bearer at War—The Ralph Goode Story, the first person to enlist for WWI service from Lilydale.
The Dandenong Ranges Music Council will receive $25,000 to assist in the preparation and performance of a suite of musical works for community bands and choirs to be performed at Anzac services and concerts. The grant will also contribute to school workshops and a major concert in the Casey electorate in April 2015 featuring local school and community bands and choirs.

The Casey Centenary of Anzac Committee received applications earlier this year and provided their assessment and recommendations to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for consideration. The Committee was led by Mr Ray Yates and included ten outstanding local residents with a proven track record of community contribution.

Over the coming weeks and months the Minister will announce the approval of further grants for the Casey electorate.

Together with the efforts of the local community, we can ensure that our electorate pays appropriate tribute to those from this area who answered the call and served our nation.